Whether you’re having an issue with a nether-regions smell or your partner is, the problem may be easier to solve than you think. Penile odor is extremely common and something every man may experience in his life. A serious or long-lasting odor may be due to environmental factors that can be easily changed. More severe cases of odor on the penis may be symptoms of a medical issue like a sexually transmitted disease, so ensure you’re watching out for any other symptoms if experiencing a foul-smelling odor down there. The starting point for fixing the problem is identifying the cause; here are some of the most common:

- Smegma. This sebaceous secretion, found in the folds of the penis skin, is caused by the build-up of oil, skin cells and moisture. This combination, in congruence with the hot and warm environment of the groin, causes the formation of smegma, a cheesy substance with a foul smell. Thankfully, proper hygiene is all that is needed for the prevention and treatment of smegma. Keep clean to avoid this unpleasant and sometimes painful issue.

- Male yeast infections. Theseare quite common and plague many more men than previously thought. These fungal infections are caused by candida yeast, which is normally present on skin, but having sex with a partner who has a yeast infection can trigger the infection. Like vaginal yeast infections, penile yeast infections are easily treated with antifungal cremes.

- Pubic hair. Especially when long and unruly, thisis a common home to bacteria that fester and cause penile odor. Many suggest keeping pubic hair trimmed or even removed completely, as oil from the hair mixes with natural skin oils, sweat and heat and can cause a gnarly smell. Some suggest applying baby powder to the groin area to help with that nasty scent.

- Non-cotton clothing. Synthetic fabrics that don’t “breathe”are a sure fire-way to trap heat and moisture, so pick up a pair of cotton undies for better results. The groin area is a breeding ground for bacteria; wearing breathable fabrics like cotton helps to keep fresh air circulating into the stale area.

- Sexually transmitted infections. Some STIs are known to cause penile odor as a symptom, so your body may be telling you something, especially if you’re also experiencing any burning sensations during urination, discharge from the tip of the penis or any swelling, pain or rashes on your penis. Always be cautious of your sexual partners if they have symptoms of an STI.

- Hygiene. Most penile odor causes are due to a simple problem: lack of adequate grooming. Proper, frequent washing of the genital area is a necessity to keep the area fresh and clean. Showering with an uncircumcised penis demands more effort, as men need to pull their foreskin all the way back to wash the head of their penis with soap at least once or twice a day to avoid smegma and any other secretions that may stink. Try to shower in the morning and evening, and especially after any workout. After correctly washing the area, dry and moisturize your skin with a product made specifically for men, like a penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which has been clinically proven safe and mild for skin) . This particular health crème is a super weapon, containing vitamins and nutrients essential to the wellbeing of private area skin, like vitamin C, for collagen production, and Shea butter, which hydrates the skin leaving the area soft and smooth. Keep the penis skin clean, dry, and hydrated for optimal health.